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Yes, the rumors are true: you will be eating your fair share of hummus, pita, and falafel in Amman. But there are so many other tasty staples in Jordanian cuisine that you will be trying too! Here are 5 of the most common things I’ve been eating during my first few months:
Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, a meal you will definitely be trying during your semester here. One of the most common questions I get as a foreigner in Jordan is “Have you tried Mansaf yet?” This is a traditional Arab dish made of lamb and rice, cooked in boiled yogurt, and topped with almonds. Mansaf originated in Bedouin culture and many Jordanians still continue the tradition of eating this meal with their hands. If you are attending a wedding or a big family gathering, chances are high that Mansaf will be served! Photo credit: Pcolar, 2020
Maqluba is another traditional Arab dish consisting of meat, rice, and fried vegetables. The food is cooked in layers and then flipped over when served, hence its name, which literally translates to “upside down.” This is one of the most common dinners at my house and a popular lunch for a lot of students at AMIDEAST! Photo credit: Pcolar, 2020
On chilly days in Amman, my host mom usually makes this dish to warm us up! Lentil soup is very common in Jordan. It usually contains various Middle Eastern spices, lemon juice, and is served topped with crunchy croutons! Photo credit: Pcolar, 2020
Fatayer is a Middle Eastern “pie” and is by far my favorite snack in Jordan! You can find all types of Fatayer, most commonly stuffed with either meat, spinach, or my personal favorite, Fatayer Jebneh (stuffed with cheese). You can find these delicious pastries in most bakeries in Amman but my Arabic teachers highly recommend the popular bakery in 7th circle called Al-Sufara! Photo credit: Pcolar, 2020
Another popular dish I eat for dinner almost weekly! This is a spinach and meat “stew” served over rice and covered in lemon juice. Photo credit: Pcolar, 2020
